Avoid the risk by avoiding bats

In reading Julie Muhlstein’s Oct. 31 column about bat devotee Barbara Ogaard, I was surprised to see no mention of a deadly important fact: Bats are the only wild animals in Washington state that are known to carry rabies. Rabies infection from a bat bite is rare, but virtually always fatal. Within the past decade there have been two Washington state residents who have died from infection with bat rabies virus.

People can avoid the risk of rabies by avoiding contact with bats – especially dead, sick or injured ones. Children in particular need to be taught that they should never, under any circumstances, pick up or touch a bat. Additionally, pet dogs, cats and ferrets need to be fully vaccinated against rabies. Whenever a human has contact with a bat, we recommend capturing the animal for rabies testing of its brain tissue to determine the need for preventive treatment for the exposed person. Bats for rabies testing should be captured only with use of heavy gloves or “non-touch” methods, and placed in a secure, puncture-proof container. The head of the bat should not be damaged if at all possible. Snohomish Health District should be called for advice about rabies testing at 425-339-5278.

Health Officer

Snohomish Health District